JASON SPEARS

I noticed if I don’t pray or meditate that my days are usually longer and more stressful.

Quickly describe your morning routine.

Each morning, I routinely wake from my slumber around 6:00 – 6:30 am. I have never used an alarm clock so my body tends to wake itself at this time, even on the weekends. I roll over and tune into the news to catch-up on all the things I missed the night before. After lying in bed for another 30 minutes, I instinctively reach for my phone and check my notifications and other pertinent information. I am usually amused by my group chats (Shout out to Bougie Black People and Party People!). My routine continues with a shower. I use “Oil of Olay” cause my skin gets pale, and then I got the files for my fingernails. Following my shower, I stretch and meditate, get dressed then make my bed. Finally, I make my breakfast and pack lunch before leaving for work.

“I have never used an alarm clock so my body tends to wake itself at this time, even on the weekends.”

How often do you change your morning routine?

My morning has been pretty much the same for the last four years. I make slight variations if I have to be at work earlier or if I prefer to work out in the morning rather than the afternoon. However, since I’m moving from my place soon, I try to clean my apartment more in the mornings to make it presentable to potential renters.

Do you use an alarm or a specific app to help you wake up?

I have never used an alarm clock. They don’t work for me. The only time I use an alarm is when I have to be somewhere really early and even then I usually wake up 30 minutes before it goes off.

Do you eat breakfast in the morning, if so, what do you typically have?

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! Lately, my breakfast has consisted of two boiled eggs and oatmeal with brown sugar. I occasionally get a breakfast sandwich from the café at my job and split it with my colleague Meags. If I feel like a good cleanse, I may make green smoothies for the week.

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!”

What’s the first beverage you have in the morning, and at what time?

I usually wake up wanting something to drink. I have a pitcher of filtered water and some carbonated water in my fridge. I usually go for whichever one is closest. When I get to work I drink a lot of water and lemon, since I heard that is good for digestion.

Do you move in the morning and/or make space for stillness?
If so, how long?[This includes exercise of any form, meditation, prayer, etc.]

I usually stretch and meditate in the morning. I do this for about 15 to 20 minutes to get my head in the right mental space for the day. I also try to work out during my lunch or after work for at least 30 minutes.

“I usually stretch and meditate in the morning.”

How soon after waking up do you check your phone?
[This includes cCheck/send emails, browse social media]

I try to wait at least 30 minutes before checking my phone. I tend to check my home screen for mentions, likes, and comments, then I see what people have been up to.

“If I’m not centered my whole day will be thrown off.”

What are the most important tasks you complete in the morning?

Pray: I pray every morning and thank God for every opportunity he has
given me and for giving me another opportunity to make an impact.

Meditation: If I’m not centered my whole day will be thrown off.

Shower: I have to be fresh and clean. Ashley Graham may walk into my office.

Do you have a bedtime routine?

I really don’t have a routine. I hope to be in the house talking to my fiancée by at least 8 pm and eat dinner before 9 pm. I try to get in bed at 10 pm and listen to podcasts to help me fall asleep. I love Snap Judgment, Risk, and Dinner Party Download.

When you travel or when you’re in a different environment, are you able to keep the same routine?

Unfortunately, I rarely ever travel. However, I do force myself to relax more on vacation. Sleep longer. Stay away from electronics more and enjoy my surroundings.

Do you commit to your morning and night routines on the weekend or do you take a different approach?

For the most part, my routines stay the same during the weekends. I still wake up at the same times and I usually have a photoshoot (I’m an amateur photographer) on Saturdays and go to church on Sundays. I do admit that my meals are little better on the weekends since I have more time to prepare.

Have you noticed a change in your day if you forget or don’t follow your morning routine?

I noticed if I don’t pray or meditate that my days are usually longer and more stressful. That is why I try to make sure I’m centered before coming into the office.

What project(s) are you currently working on which adds value to your life?

I’m currently working on transitioning from the Hill to become a full-time student at the end of the year. I was recently accepted into NYU’s Wagner School to get my Masters in Public Administration and the for the last couple months I have been looking for housing and job opportunities in New York while trying to wrap a nice bow on my duties in my current office.